DOH cracks down once again, shuts down 24hr... Page 2 Samoana Sharks Varsity edge the Vikings out in a stunning victory In Sports
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Tri Marine urges NMFS to support American Samoa’s Tuna Operation C M Y K PAGE - 3 Samoana High School’s Special Education program, as well as members of the student body took part in a ‘wave’ that was held at the Suigaula ole Atuvasa Beach Park in Utulei last Friday morning, to raise awareness about breast cancer. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Pacifi c Island In Samoa, the Apia clock tower has been painted “pink” — the o cial color of Breast Cancer Awareness Month — while locally pink ribbons, t-shirts and ‘waves’ kicked of the celebration last week. News in Brief [photo: Blue Chen-Fruean] PAGE - 5
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PAGO PAGO, AMERICAN SAMOA TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2017 $1.00 Lolo rescinds memo Le’i says it’s his duty — under the that appointed Tauese law — to carry out weapons training COPS WILL BE CERTIFIED TO CARRY WEAPONS AND USE DEADLY FORCE by Ausage Fausia During a brief interview last Friday, Le’i told as Police Chief Samoa New Reporter Samoa News that after the 2-week training, he is Over two dozen local police offi cers, including confi dent our local police force is ready to carry A GRIEVANCE IS REPORTEDLY UNDERWAY sergeants, lieutenants, captains and commanders, weapons while performing their duties. were at the shooting range in Aoloau for two “We have been receiving a lot of information by Ausage Fausia days participating in training drills that complete during training over the last two weeks,” he said, Samoa News Reporter a 2-week course, which ultimately certifi es them adding that they had to take written tests almost Last Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2017, Governor Lolo M. Moilga to carry weapons. on a daily basis, and they were schooled on the issued a General Memorandum that rescinds a prior memo issued Also present at the shooting range was course physical manipulation of the weapon. in 2014, which appointed Tauese Va’aomala Sunia as Chief of instructor, Ernie Haleck, a retired police offi cer, “So I am very confi dent that the men and Police for the Department of Public Safety (DPS). but still a ready reserve for the LAPD; Lt. Gov. women at the Department of Public Safety are Lolo’s memo follows a Sept. 29th memo issued by DPS Com- Lemanu Peleti Mauga; DPS Commissioner, ready to be armed,”Le’i said, and pointed out missioner Le’i S. Thompson that transferred Tauese to the Ter- Le’i S. Thompson; Deputy Commissioners, again that “I’m not going to arm all police offi - ritorial Correctional Facility to serve as warden beginning last Falana’ipupu Ta’ase Sagapolutele and Vaimaga cers, only those who are being certifi ed to use Monday (Oct 2). See story, Monday, Oct. 2, 2017. Maiava; and Department of Homeland Security weapons and deadly force.” According to Lolo, the 2014 memo is rescinded, “in light of director, Samana S. Ve’ave’a. the current efforts by the new leadership of the Department of (Continued on page 4) Public Safety to restructure the department along with the reas- signment of personnel with special skills, experience, and leader- C M ship history to bolster the effectiveness of the agency to improve Y K the safety of our people and to meet the growing public safety challenges.” He said the action is necessary to accord the new Police Com- missioner the “opportunity to implement new public safety plans dedicated to improve public safety services by upgrading and boosting the capacity of law enforcement personnel, transform the operating culture within the department, and to restore public faith in the integrity of our law enforcement system.” Lolo continued, “The action by the Commissioner responds to our repeated directive to all departments and agencies of the American Samoa Government to reorganize and reshuffl e per- sonnel, not only to improve cost effectiveness of government operations, but also to ensure that the quality of services to our people is appreciably improved.” According to the governor, “With the increasing onslaught e spotlight this past Sunday was on the thousands of youngsters who participated in White of law malfeasant behavior against our children, our people, our Sunday activities for the various religious denominations on island. ere was lots of singing, society, our community and our territory, it behooves us to trans- dancing, acting — all performed by the children as proud parents and family members looked on form our law enforcement infrastructure to ensure that it has the with pride. For most, White Sunday is the one day out of the year when children get to be spoiled, ability and the capacity to combat these criminal elements. eating rst during toana’i, getting all the ice cream and cake they want, and going on a long car ride “Drug use, drug traffi cking, human traffi cking, social abuses, in the early evening hours. Despite the current hardship on the local economy, which showed up in senseless killing and terrorist activities are running rampant, thus store sales — you couldn’t tell on the faces of the children — as there was nothing but big smiles on their faces. [photo: BC] (Continued on page 4) Page 2 samoa news, Tuesday, October 10, 2017 DOH cracks down once again, shuts down 24-hour store in Fagaalu by Blue Chen-Fruean ance Offi cer, Onosa’i Aulava “Certain food items should Samoa News Correspondent who departed the territory for not be exposed and left out at The Department of Health’s Manu’a yesterday. room temperature,” he said. Environmental Division has According to Aulava, the “They need to be in a glass dis- shut down Gold Conda Store surprise visit was made after play shelf set to a certain tem- in Fagaalu, after inspectors dis- their offi ce received numerous perature to keep it fresh, safe, covered major health violations complaints about the quality and away from dust and dirt.” at the establishment last week. of food being sold at the store, Aulava said one of the big- A ‘Public Notice’ taped on and the overall condition of the gest problems they encounter the store’s main entrance reads: establishment. at establishments such as Gold “As of 10/03/2017 by order of He said Gold Conda is the Conda, is the language barrier, the Department of Health, busi- only 24-hour store in the area as none of the workers under- ness is CLOSED until further and it is frequented by people stand or speak fl uent English. notice.” not only during regular busi- He indicated that the store Samoa News sought an ness hours, but especially late at manager - who understands explanation over the weekend night and during the wee hours English - arrived in the territory from DOH Chief Compli- of the morning by local folks last week (after the store was seeking medical assistance or shut down by DOH) and he has visiting loved ones at the LBJ been briefed about the situation. Medical Center, and those who Aulava said he and his team work the graveyard shift. conducted a follow-up visit last FA’ASALALAUGA Gold Conda not only sells Friday an “there is tremendous E muamua on a matou taia le tafa’itoa e pei o le fetalaiga i le ava i Utumalama aua e groceries, it also has a fast food improvement.” He said that faigata ou pa’ia sauo’o Samoa aua o ou pa’ia mai Manu’a e o’o i Falealupo. section and sells ready-to-eat while ‘big changes’ have been items like sandwiches, sushi, made, the store was still not Matou te fa’atulou, tulou, tulou lava. hot dogs, etc. given the green light to re-open, E fa’apea fo’i le silasila faitau a le pa’ia o le Aiga sa Levi o lo’o talafa’auto o Nu’u ma “One of the biggest concerns despite pleas from the manager Afioga o le Atusamoa i le asuina o le vai o le talalelei aua se manuia o Samoa ma ona we have, is the fact that some to lift the notice because of the tagata. Matou te fa’atulou atu. of these food items are being busy White Sunday weekend. bought and taken to the hospital “There are still some things Ae o lenei fa’asilasilaga e fa’apitoaugafa ma fa’asinotonu i suli uma o Lualemaga Leatoa where caretakers and staff are that needed to be addressed o lo’o afifio ma papa aao i o outou ma’asalafa i so’o se tulimanu o le Atusamoa fa’apea le consuming them,” Aulava said. and that’s why I didn’t grant lalolagi atoa. Ua a’e nei se taofiga ma se manatu ia i matou o suli o Lualemaga Leatoa o According to him, the inspec- the request to re-open the store lo’o nopia’i ma nonofo tonu i si o tatou Aiga i Aasu e fa’apea. tion revealed a number of health last Friday,” Aulava told Samoa violations, including unsanitary News. “It’s a matter of pro- Matou te taalo atu ma le agaga fa’aaloalo ma le loto maualalo ina ia tou afifio mai ma conditions in both the front end tecting the people of American tala mai aao se’i tatou feiloa’i ma se’i filitupe le auausa’asa’a ma sasa’a faaoti le uto a le fai and the storage room. Samoa.” mea ma sasa’a le fafao i so outou finagalo fa’aalia fa’apea fo’i so matou manatu e avatu When asked for details, He said that since he will be e ala i le sailiga o so tatou sui fa’aolioli o le suafa o lo tatou Aiga lea ua le o nofoia nei le Aulava said the storage room is in Manu’a until later this week, nofoa o Tavita ua avanoa. full to maximum capacity, and he has briefed one of his inspec- is not well organized. While tors about the situation, and O le mea lea matou te taalo atu ai ma le fa’aaloalo o le a faia le feiloaiga ia Novema he understands that businesses a follow-up visit will be car- aso fa (4) 2017 i le itula e 9 i le taeao i le laoa o le tofa a Fa’afatuvaolo. O lou le aua’i mai i always try to keep a huge ried out today. “If everything lenei feiloaiga o le a le taofia ai se finagalo e autasi iai suli o le a potopoto mai i lea Aso. inventory so the supply doesn’t we noted has been addressed, Alofagia le pule fa’asoifua a le tapa’au i le lagi ia sopo iai lo outou soifua ma se matou run out, he said he was over- there’s no reason why Gold ola i lea aso taupoina. whelmed with the number of Conda shouldn’t re-open for boxes and stock scattered all business today,” he said. Ua sainia lenei fa’asilasilaga e le over the place, and not stacked “Our job is to raise the tofa Fa’afatuvaolo le fofoga o Lualemaga properly. standards of food safety in And while that may not be American Samoa, by letting ma suli o Lualemaga o lo’o nonofo isi o tatou Aiga i Aasu. a concern for many, he said the business owners and operators end result is canned food get- know what needs to be done,” ting rusty and buried in dust. Aulava continued. He said sur- He said the items are not yet prise visits will be carried out expired - according to the labels throughout the remainder of - but because they are not well the year, and it has been tough organized, things are being piled for them, trying to haggle their one on top of another and this schedule, as DOH employees has caused some canned goods are currently occupied with out- NOTICE OF OFFICE to appear old and damaged. reach efforts dealing with the Referring to the hot food dengue fever outbreak. items being sold next to the DOH inspections are front counter, Aulava said that random. Business owners are CLOSURE under federal regulations, there urged to keep their establish- is a two-hour window for items ments clean and up to par, The Law Office of Sharron Rancourt to be out in the open, to main- so there is no disruption in will close on November 10, 2017. tain freshness and quality. operations. All current clients having an active/pending matter with our Office are urged to contact our Office prior toNovember 10, 2017 to arrange the release of your file. Please contact our Office at: 684-633-6264 to ensure your file(s) will be ready when you arrive. If you have any questions, please contact our Office during normal business hours. **Official Business Calls Only Please FA’AFETAI TELE LAVA Law Office of Sharron Rancourt Tedi of Samoa Building, 1st Floor PO BOX 4844 Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 samoa news, Tuesday, October 10, 2017 Page 3
American Samoa Tri Marine urges NMFS to support Environmental Protection Agency
American Samoa’s tuna operations Lagolagoina le fa’amamaina o matafaga ASEPA CITING ITS CANNERY CLOSURE IN AM SAMOA AS AN EXAMPLE Aso o le Fa’asalalauga: Oketopa 04, 2017 by Fili Sagapolutele and those of StarKist” cannery. Fa’afeso’ota’i: AS-EPA Polokalama a le Vai – 633-2304 Samoa News Correspondent Additionally, Tri Marine is associated with US based Tri Marine International is urging a fl eet of seven US fl agged purse seiners based Fa’asilasilaga mai le Ofisa o le Puipuiga o le Si’osi’omaga a federal agency to grant its exemption request in the territory. The fl eet was composed of as mo le mamalu o le atunu’u: sa faia su’esu’ega o gataifale — made three years ago and supported by the many as 11 vessels, and six of them were entirely ia Oketopa 03, 2017, ma fa’amaonia ai le i ai o siama American Samoa Government — dealing with US built and had US fi sheries endorsements, (Enterococci) i gataifale o alalafaga nei: US purse seiner fl eets that deliver their catch to which was a determining factor in the decision the canneries in the territory, whose economy to acquire them, as the company planned to fi sh is dependent on the canning tuna processing inside US waters. Leone Pala Laulii Stream Mouth industry. Curto’s letter revealed that since the beginning Nuuuli Pala Lagoon Alega Beach Tri Marine made the call in an Oct. 3rd of last year, one vessel has been sold to another Nuuuli Pala Spring Alega Stream Mouth fi ve-page comment letter from the company’s US owner, three were sold to foreign owners, and chairman and CEO, Renato Curto to the US a fi fth vessel was being sold to another foreign Gataivai Beach Fagaitua Stream Mouth National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), buyer. Utulei-DDW Beach Masefau Stream Mouth seeking public comments on a proposed rule to According to Curto, American Samoa is a Utulei Beach Sailele Beach establish a limit for calendar year 2017 on fi shing Participating Territory under the Conservation efforts by U.S. purse seine vessels in the U.S. and Management Measure (CMM) adopted by Afono Beach Alofau Stream Mouth exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and on the high the Western and Central Pacifi c Fisheries Com- Aua Stream Mouth Amouli Beach seas — the area known in federal regulations as mission (WCPFC). Under the General Rules of Aua-A&M Stream Mouth Auasi Harbor Effort Limit Area for Purse Seine, or ELAPS. CMM-2015 (specially Sec. 7), establishment of The proposed rule sets the limit at 1,828 any limits on high seas fi shing days is “without E fautuaina le mamalu o le atunu’u o lo’o fa’aaogaina ia ogasami mo ta’elega fi shing days, according to NMFS, which recalled prejudice” to the rights of Participating Ter- ma fagotaga: talu ai ona o su’esu’ega o ia vaega o ogasami sa faia i le vaiaso ua that the federal agency received in May 2015 a ritories (i.e. American Samoa) in the Conven- mavae, sa molimauina ai le maualuga o le faitau aofa’i o siama (Enterococci) mai petition from Tri Marine for an exemption from tion Area (Central and Western Pacifi c Ocean) numera ua fa’atapula’aina i le tulafono i ia vaega o ogasami. O nei siama e afua high seas limit any U.S.-fl agged purse seine seeking to develop their domestic fi sheries. mai otaota po’o suavai lafoa’i o tagata ma meaola. Afai ae o’o atu le faitau aofa’i vessel that — pursuant to contract or declaration He said the General Rule set forth the princi- o siama mai numera ua fa’atapula’aina, o lona uiga, e i ai le avanoa e ono afaina of intent — delivers or will deliver at least 50 ples for limiting high seas fi shing days, and under ai lou soifua maloloina ini fa’ama’i e pei o le manava-tatā, o fofoga fa’apea fo’i percent of its catch to tuna processing facilities provision of this Rule, the US would be limited ma manu’a o le tino pe a sao i ai le siama. Mo lou saogalemu: ‘aua le inuina le based in American Samoa. to 1,270 days for 2014-2016, except as necessary suasami, ia fa’alanu lelei, ma fa’amālū pe a mae’a ta’elega. O le fautuaga mai le NMFS denied the petition on Oct. 23, 2015. to protect the rights of American Samoa as a Par- Ofisa o le AS-EPA, fa’afeso’ota’i muamua se foma’i, a’o le’i fa’aaogaina ia ogasami, auā le puipuiga o lou soifua maloloina. (Details can be viewed on federal portal www. ticipating Territory. regulations.gov). “Under the CMM, the US is given the dis- Fa’amolemole, fa’autagia mai nei fautuaga. O le a toe maua atu se isi ripoti, pe In his letter to NMFS, Curto fi rst pointed out cretion to decide how best to protect the Partici- a mae’a nisi o su’esu’ega mai le Potu Su’esu’e a le AS-EPA i le vaiaso fou. O lo’o i that Tri Marine is the benefi cial owner of a large pating Territory rights of American Samoa,” he lalo o le va’ava’aiga a le AS-EPA matafaga mo tafaoga e 44 i le motu o Tutuila, e 5 scale cannery in American Samoa, but the plant argued. “Without question, American Samoa is a i Manua ma le uafu i Aunu’u. O fa’asalalauga mo fautuaga mo le motu o Tutuila o lo’o auina atu i vaiaso ta’itasi, ae o Manu’a ma Aunu’u e fa’asalalau atu i masina “was forced to shut down” last December, “due Participating Territory whose fi shing industry is ta’itasi. Mo ni fesili pe fia malamalama atili, fa’amolemole, vala’au mai i le telefoni to a number of reasons, including the lack of ade- intended to be nurtured and protected under the (684) 633-2304. quate supply of raw material to meet its needs CMMs adopted by the WCPFC.” (Continued on page 6) vvvvvOrigin Energy NOW until White Sunday Specials Oct 31st AT402LP- 2Burner gas cooker with stand. AMANA- LPG AGR4230BAB (Incl reg & hose set) (30inch BLACK-4Burner Stove)
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CALL into origin energy gas showroom at tafuna industrial park 699-9740 Page 4 samoa news, Tuesday, October 10, 2017 ASCC Marine Science Stu- dents Set Sail for Science by Kelley Anderson Tagarino also learned the basics of sailing, ASCC ACNR & Hawai‘i Sea navigating, and living onboard Grant a ship. Many of the students In late September, 20 Amer- expressed enjoyment with the ican Samoa Community Col- day sail, with student Faith Latu lege (ASCC) Marine Science saying, “I feel very lucky to students embarked aboard the have been able to join this day Sailing School Vessel (SSV) sail. I learned a lot and it made Robert C. Seamans to conduct me excited to learn more about oceanographic research around the ocean around our islands.” Tutuila. This is the fourth Experiences such as this would season where the SSV Robert not be possible without the sup- C. Seamans, owned and oper- port of the SEA program, ASCC ated by the Sea Education and ACNR, and the University Association (SEA), has been of Hawai‘i Sea Grant. The SSV in-port in Pago Pago as part of Robert C. Seamans’ in-porting a new Pacifi c Ocean route that During an oceanographic research sail aboard the Robert C. Seamans, Sea Education Associa- in Pago Pago is now an annual SEA began offering in 2014. tion sta led ASCC students in the appropriate line hauling method to raise the main sail, the largest event, which benefi ts our Ter- The new route involves ritory through increased ocean sail on the ship. [photo. S. Woo er] ending one semester program awareness and as an attraction in Pago Pago, from which stu- for visitors. In addition, last dents fl y home in June, fol- year SEA generously provided lowed by another Pago Pago- a full scholarship to ASCC based departure to the Phoenix Marine Science student Johann Islands in July from which Vollrath, who attended their the ship returned in August. inaugural Pacifi c Reefs Expe- Another program begins in late dition program which included September, when the new stu- sailing from Papeete, Tahiti, dents fl y in and sail out aboard to Rangiroa, Karorina Atoll, the SSV Robert C. Seamans. Keritimati Atoll, and Honolulu, Between June and September Hawai‘i. The ASCC Marine the SSV Robert C. Seamans Science Program expressed its crew has graciously hosted gratitude to SEA for providing many visitors for tours or day such wonderful opportunities to sails, and is committed to doing its students and said it looks for- the same in 2018. ward to continuing this partner- During the day sail, ASCC ship. Anyone wishing to learn students gained hands-on expe- more about the ASCC Marine rience using oceanographic Science Program can contact instruments for testing water Kelley Anderson Tagarino at quality, currents, and plankton, 699-3353 (offi ce) or 258-2967 both in Pago Pago Harbor (cell), or email
Pacifi c Island ROTARY CLUB News in Brief OF PAGO PAGO compiled by Samoa News staff said the Government’s decision AMATA WELCOMES was fi nal and they would not $67,000 DOT GRANT extend the diplomatic passports FOR AMERICAN SAMOA as requested. FA’AFETAI TELE! THANK YOU! HOMELAND SECURITY But the issue does not sit To All the Businesses, Government Agencies and Individuals Washington, D.C. – Friday, well with Olo Fiti, who said OCT. 6, 2017 - Congress- “Tui Atua was Samoa’s King.” for your support for the Tsunami Memorial Remembrance woman Aumua Amata was “He is Tama Aiga (royalty) Service held on Saturday, September 30, 2017. pleased to welcome a $67,000 and no matter what the govern- grant from the U.S. Department ment does the mindset of our of Transportation (DOT) for the people will never change from • Rev. Iasepi Ulu and family • Samoa News American Samoa Government the fact that Tui Atua is our • McDonald’s for hazardous materials safety. King and he is royalty,” Olo • First Lady Cynthia Moliga “American Samoans greatly told the Sunday Samoan. • Tofa Galumalemana Su’a • Representative Sam Meleisea appreciate our fi rst responders, “Is this how we treat the and all they do to be ready in King who has served in every • Taeaoafua Dr Meki Solomona, • ASPA Staff time of need,” Aumua Amata aspect of the Government? “ Dr Jueta McCutchan, DHSS • KVZK said. “I welcome this funding “He’s a former Member of for the preparation and safety Parliament, who led the Oppo- • Laura Ava-Tesimale & the One • KS Mart of emergency personnel and the sition, a former Prime Min- • Panamex Pacific people they serve in any poten- ister and now a former Head of Global Family Foundation tial crisis.” State.” • Carl’s Junior • Pacific Energy Specifi cally, this $67,148 “The move is not only Hazardous Materials Emer- insulting but degrading to say • Hawaiian Airlines • Purse Seine Samoa gency Preparedness (HMEP) the least, and as a Member of • Depatment Parks and Recreation • Taaloga Drabble Grant from the DOT’s Pipeline Parliament and a citizen of this and Hazardous Materials Safety county, I am ashamed with Administration (PHMSA) is how my former Head of State designated for the American is being treated due to dirty Human Resource Department, Tafuna Samoa Department of Home- politics.” PO Box PPB, Pago Pago land Security. “I understand there are other American Samoa 96799 Phone No: (684) 248-1234, Option #4 The grant funds efforts diplomatic passports being used Email: [email protected] to enhance their ability to by former Members of Parlia- Website: www.aspower.com respond to hazardous mate- ment which were recently can- rials transportation incidents. celled when the government This includes assisting in per- announced the denial of the APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM forming hazardous materials extension of the former Head of response duties and aiding in State’s diplomatic passports.” The American Samoa Power Authority announces an excellent opportunity for young the development, implementa- “The issue at hand is sig- technically minded individuals who want a challenging, profitable career in American tion, and improvement of emer- nifi cant, this is Samoa’s former Samoa. gency plans and training for Head of State, and his service local communities. The HMEP has led Samoa to where it is ASPA is looking for its next generation of technicians and engineers. Over the next few grant program allows fl exibility now.” years, ASPA will be developing young technicians and engineers for key positions within for the differing needs of each “Is this how the Govern- the organization. It needs skilled specialists in a number of fields. location. The funds can be used ment repays his long years of ASPA will provide employment and professional training for successful applicants. in developing or revising emer- service?” gency plans and training activi- “So set aside the fact that Apprentices will receive training both on the job and in formal apprenticeship classes. ties to account for bulk trans- he’s served in numerous capaci- Qualified apprentices will receive an all-expense paid education at a technical school or portation of energy products, ties of the government, but what university in Fiji or equivalent. Applicants must be willing to commit to spending 2 – 3 studies regarding hazmat ship- about the fact that he is Tama years off-island in pursuit of a diploma or degree. The focus for this apprentice program ments, and training emergency Aiga, does that not mean any- will be on mechanical and electrical trades or a related field. responders to respond appro- thing anymore?” asked Olo Fiti. priately to hazmat and other The Member of Parliament Selected apprentices will be employed by ASPA in preparation for the academic session incidents. believes this is an internal starting in February 2018. “I appreciate the DOT’s rec- country issue and the gov- Applicants must have the following qualifications: ognition of the need to include ernment has the discretion to American Samoa in this effort,” extend the passport. “Saying it Educational Requirements: High School graduate (minimum); Associate degree or Congresswoman Amata con- is longstanding policies put in better preferred. Must have a cumulative GPA between tinued. “Congratulations espe- place in accordance with the 3.0-3.5 or maintained at least a B or better grade average in cially to the program man- United Nation laws, is a load the following courses: ager, Alexander V. Tali, along of rubbish,” he said. “This is with Director Samana Semo our Tama Aiga, he is entitled to (1) Physics, Chemistry, General Science Ve’ave’a and everyone else at these benefi ts whether the Gov- (2) Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus the Department involved in this ernment likes it or not.” (3) English (TOEFL score of 500 or better) grant.” He said, “The entitlement (Source: Congresswoman was in affect when Tui Atua Skills and Aptitudes: Intermediate level computer skills. Ability to work Aumua Amata’s Offi ce, Wash- was born into this World, why, independently, disciplined, self-starter, technically minded ington, DC) because he’s Tama Aiga and he (confirmed by required references).Other desirable skills “IT’S INSULTING AND is our King.” include hand-eye coordination, motor skills, attention to DISGRACEFUL” “How dare the government detail, and work well in a team environment. The treatment of the former insult the former Head of State Head of State, His Highness Tui like that!” Olo Fiti stated. Citizenship: US National or Citizen. Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and “This is not only an insult to Testing: All applicants will be required to complete ASPA’s internal the Masiofo, Her Highness Fili- their Highnesses but also to the testing for science and math ability. fi lia Tamasese by the govern- People of Samoa, whose King ment is “unacceptable, insulting is being robbed of what he is Salary will be based on the technical area and job duties assigned. and disgraceful.” entitled to.” Applicants must complete an ASPA Employment Application Form and provide two That’s the opinion of The Member of Parliament Member of Parliament, Olo said the decision should be written references. The form is available at ASPA Human Resource Office in Tafuna or via Fiti Vaai, who has called on the reversed. ASPA’s website at www.aspower.com government to reconsider its “I will never let this issue All application information, including school records and references, will be subject to decision to deny the extension go, because Tui Atua is our verification as part of the screening process. of the diplomatic passports for former Head of State, and if it the former Head of State and his means signing a petition for an Deadline for submitting applications is 4pm on Friday, October 20th, 2017. Masiofo. appeal, that is what we will do Last week, Prime Minister to remind the Government that Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi An Equal Opportunity Employer * A Drug Free Workplace (Continued on page 8) Page 6 samoa news, Tuesday, October 10, 2017 ➧ Tri Marine… Continued from page 3 Curto added that it’s Tri argued in the last three years Marine’s understanding that to lift restrictions on high seas. NMFS recently presented its Gov. Lolo Matalasi Moliga had economic analysis of possible cited “prohibition of fi shing in impacts of the 2015 ELAPS the high seas” by the federal closure to American Samoa and government, as one of the major its tuna industry at a meeting of issues that has severely threat- the Western Pacifi c Fisheries ened the continued viability of Management Council. the local tuna industry.In his That analysis, he said, con- letter to NMFS, Curto argued cluded that the 2015 closure that “there is a lack of clear sci- resulted in overall losses to the entifi c evidence for restricting combined sectors of vessels, fi shing in the high seas” and canneries, and vessel support provided data to support such companies. According to Curto, argument including data from the results suggested that the a regional government group. closure had impact on the ter- “The only purpose for limiting ritory’s economy and there is a fi shing on high seas is to force connection between US purse US purse seine vessels to pur- seine vessels and the broader chase licenses to fi sh in other C M American Samoa economy. nations’ waters or to satisfy Y K “It therefore appears that demands of non-governmental the best economic informa- organizations that claim ban- tion supports the request for ning high seas fi shing will an exemption, considering reduce or prevent Illegal, Unli- American Samoa’s status as a censed and Unregulated (IUU) Participating Territory under fi shing,” Curto alleges. the current applicable CMM He said the US should con- restrictions on high seas fi shing tinue to oppose these policies as days,” he said. Samoa News they “are not science-based and notes that American Samoa has unfairly discriminate” against US vessels, which have histor- ical fi shing rights on high seas and follow the rules adopted by WCPFC, the regional fi shery management organization. “We urge the agency to grant the exemption requested by the Government of Amer- ican Samoa and Tri Marine, to the restrictions in the ELAPS for vessels based in American Samoa,” he wrote. He went on to note that Tri Marine operates in a highly competitive global market where many competi- tive factors affect the economics and, ultimately, the success or failure of the enterprise. “Inevi- tably, lacking the support we requested, we failed, our can- nery was forced to shut down, we were forced to sell some of our vessels and transfer most of the remaining ones” to the Eastern Tropic Pacifi c Ocean, he said “We ask that the agency use its inherent discretion to support the tuna operations of American Samoa, including its authority under the CMMs of the WCPFC and the nation’s fi duciary obligation to a depen- dent territory, by granting the exemption we requested,” he said. Public comments on the ELAPS fi shing days limit for C M 2017 closed yesterday, Oct. 5th. Y K
ACCURACY We make an issue of it every day.
If you want to comment about our accuracy, call Samoa News at 633-5599 samoa news, Tuesday, October 10, 2017 Page 7 At somber hall, people retrieve items lost in Vegas shooting LAS VEGAS (AP) — They abilities Act-compliant seating, came quietly, in a steady stream as well as those recovered from looking for purses, wallets inside and in front of the VIP and cellphones. One person tent and bleacher seating east of searched for a treasured wed- the stage. ding bracelet. The somber mood at the hall After the deadliest mass was occasionally deepened by shooting in modern U.S. his- weeping. tory, concertgoers and family Volunteers fi lled out intake members of those who attended forms with detailed descriptions a country music festival that of lost items, and later, FBI vic- ended in death for dozens tims’ assistance agents asked of people sought Monday to follow-up questions. recover belongings left behind People received their belong- in panic. ings in re-sealable plastic bags. Lawn chairs, baby strollers, After identifying their items, cowboy hats, boots and thou- some smiled and others hugged sands of other items were dis- the FBI agents or Red Cross carded as 22,000 people fl ed volunteers who helped them. C M the concert venue while bullets Those returning to claim Y K fl ew from the Mandalay Bay their items fi rst must pass hotel casino across Las Vegas must through a vehicle check- Boulevard. point. Prominent signs indicate FBI investigators spent a that no members of the media week combing the crime scene, are allowed. Police SUVs are carefully cataloguing evidence parked a few feet away from the FILE - In this Oct. 3, 2017, le photo, investigators work among thousands of personal items at a and separating personal items entrance. festival grounds across the street from the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. Friends before transporting them to an Offi cials restricted access to and relatives of the victims and other concert-goers who survived returned Monday, Oct. 9, 2017, to assistance center set up at the the assistance center to protect reclaim baby strollers, shoes, phones, backpacks and purses le behind in the panic as they ed, at a convention center. the privacy of victims and those Family Assistance Center at the Las Vegas Convention Center. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File) “I can just tell you from traumatized by the shooting. taking a look at it, it’s just thou- sands and thousands of items, many, many truckloads that have been picked up,” Clark County Emergency Manager John Steinbeck said. “More than I would have ever expected.” People are being allowed to retrieve the belongings in groups based on where they were seated at the concert. The items available for retrieval are those that were found in an area west of the stage, which included Americans with Dis- UN: Colombian police fi red on mission sent to probe slayings BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — The United Nations denounced Colombia’s anti- narcotics police on Monday for fi ring on a humanitarian mission it led to investigate the murder of several coca growers during clashes with security forces. The mission, comprised of C M observers from the U.N. as well Y K as the Organization of Amer- ican States and church groups, were attempting Sunday to reach a remote outpost where the killings took place when they were stopped in their tracks by four exploding stun grenades as well as teargas and the sound of gunfi re, according to the U.N.’s human rights offi ce in Colombia. The confusing incident is the latest embarrassment for President Juan Manuel Santos’ government as it struggles to implement a peace deal with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia while trying to get a grip on booming coca produc- tion dominated by criminal gangs fi lling the void left by retreating rebels. Page 8 samoa news, Tuesday, October 10, 2017 region according to UNCTAD’s ➧ Cyberlaw Tracker. Pacifi c Island brief… “While the framework is Continued from page 5 in place, it seldom covers spe- Tui Atua is our King and that come its geographical disadvan- cifi c e-commerce aspects,” says will never change.” tages, the report says. Cécile Barayre, an UNCTAD (Source: Samoa Observer) “As is the case for most legal offi cer who worked on the SAMOA TAKES IMPOR- small island developing states assessment. TANT STEPS TO and especially in the Pacifi c,” “One specifi c challenge is BECOMING E-COM- the assessment says, “trade the contradicting and overlap- MERCE READY logistics constraints remain a ping regulations adopted by The Pacifi c Island nation of key bottleneck for Samoa.” different ministries and govern- Samoa has made considerable Air transport is the most ment agencies,” she adds. progress in recent years in get- expensive way to ship goods, But even if more Samoans FOR SALE! ting businesses and consumers yet because most goods are connected to the Internet and trust online payment, if they MD Sports 80” Stealth Air EastPoint Sports online but still faces challenges Samoans buy and sell online are before being fully ready to small parcels, Faleolo Interna- are uninformed of the opportu- Powered Hockey Table Table Tennis benefi t from e-commerce, an tional Airport is currently the nities e-commerce offers and UNCTAD assessment of the main entry and exit point. And lack the necessary technological $525.00 $495.00 country published today says. this takes a toll on businesses’ skills, online sales will continue Inlaid LED electronic scoring The foldable table tennis Made up of eight islands sit- profi ts and consumers’ wallets. to drag. and stadium sound Dimensions: 108”L x 60”W x 30” ting halfway between Hawaii Better port facilities and “The lack of understanding Table Size: 80”L x 43.5”W” x 32”H and New Zealand, the coun- increased transportation options and awareness of what e-com- try’s isolation fuels high import would make e-commerce less merce is and how to benefi t from prices and creates challenges expensive, the assessment says, it has been a common thread for Samoan entrepreneurs to adding that the lack of a postal throughout the assessment access global markets and grow addressing system also limits period,” the report says, adding their businesses. the scope of e-commerce in that assistance could focus on By giving exporters direct Samoa. small and medium businesses FREE access to potential clients Government reforms owned by women since current DELIVERY around the globe and allowing bringing more competition and e-commerce facilities are more Samoan consumers and busi- better regulation to the telecom- accessible by well-established nesses to fi nd the best deals for munications sector have made male-owned businesses. FOR MORE INFO, what they import, e-commerce mobile phones an everyday The ability to make trade PLEASE CALL SAMOA MARKETING AT 699-5151 could help the country over- reality for most of the popula- more inclusive and offer oppor- tion. But Internet connections tunities to women and youth are still unreliable and expen- -- two segments of the popu- sive, keeping more than two lation often left out -- is what AMERICAN SAMOA LEGAL AID, INC. thirds of the population offl ine. makes e-commerce a game Letialua Building, Second Floor A monthly 2GB ADSL sub- changer, says Mere Falemaka, P.O. Box 5984 scription was US$43 in 2015, Permanent Representative of and a prepaid 3GB data plan the Pacifi c Islands Forum to the Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 World Trade Organization. Telephone: 684-633-3300 • Fax: 684-633-3303 for a mobile was US$40, in a country where minimum-wage Through the assessment, the workers earn just over US$2 an government has realized that EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: ASLA STAFF ATTORNEY hour. e-commerce is about more than The government hopes that ICT infrastructure, transport and The American Samoa Legal Aid, Inc.(“ASLA”) is seeking to employ one full-time attorney on a three the arrival of a 1,3000-kilometre regulation, and that it requires year contract for our non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal services to low-income residents of submarine cable connecting investment in soft infrastruc- American Samoa. Samoa to Fiji’s Southern ture and skills, and a thorough, encompassing national e-com- About the Position: Cross Cable will boost con- nectivity and affordability. But merce strategy. ASLA is interested in an attorney with legal experience in handling Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, “UNCTAD’s e-trade readi- Date Violence, and Stalking cases. ASLA will also consider applicant’s experience in handling cases in the assessment has shown that improved infrastructure alone ness assessments are a fi rst step Family Law, Housing, Administrative Law, Immigration, Consumer, Social Security, Public Benefits and for Pacifi c Island countries to Veteran Benefits. will not make the island nation e-commerce-ready. develop a coherent national Responsibilities: Even if the population is e-commerce policy,” Ms. Fale- • Provide effective legal advice and representation of ASLA clients. better connected, e-commerce maka says. • Perform work assigned by the Executive Director. cannot take off if the majority The government of Samoa • Comply with applicable Legal Services Corporation regulations in 45 CFR Part 1600 et. seq. of the population does not have is committed to take advan- tage of e-commerce, the report • Adhere to ASLA Board and Office policies. a bank account or credit card and remains skeptical of mobile says. And with the right vision • Comply with ASLA U.S. Department of Justice Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating and concerted efforts to remove Violence, Stalking program grant guidelines. payment solutions. “Samoans remain largely persistent bottlenecks, Samoa • Articulate ASLA’s mission in the legal community, judiciary, government, nonprofit organizations could become an e-commerce and the community at large. unbanked,” the report says, adding that only around half hub for the region. Requirements: the adult population has a bank The Samoa Rapid e-Trade • Admitted or being admitted to practice law in American Samoa. account or access to other Readiness Assessment, funded • Possess the highest ethical standards. formal services such as credit by the Enhanced Integrated • Five years experience as an attorney practicing law in American Samoa or the U.S.A. or Samoa. unions and microfi nance. Framework, a multi-donor pro- gramme for least developed • Familiarity with Legal Services Corporation regulations is preferable. And cultural beliefs in the countries, is the third such • Possess excellent communication skills. Ability to speak and write both in English and Samoan value of cash and a general reluctance to trust mobile pay- assessment UNCTAD has done. will be favorably considered. It was carried out fol- • Excellent computer skills. ments -- only 3.7% of mobile phone owners have a mobile lowing a regional workshop • Familiarity with the PIKA case management system is preferable. money account -- are pre- on e-commerce in June this • Value diversity and be culturally competent. venting online businesses such year that UNCTAD and the • Ability to work well together with the Board, Executive Director and support staff to fulfill the as Samoamarket and Makeki World Trade Organization held ASLA mission and Strategic Plan action goals. Online from boosting sales with the Pacifi c Islands Forum • Demonstrate a commitment to serve low-income residents. despite increased traffi c to their Secretariat. The assessment was pre- Starting Salary: websites. One of the reasons Samoans sented today at the UNCTAD • Depends on experience, salary in the range of $42,000-48,000 per year for full-time attorney Intergovernmental Group of plus generous leave benefits. seem reluctant to trust online payments, the report says, is Experts on E-Commerce and the Applicants: Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Deadline for applications is an incomplete and at times out- Digital Economy, convening in Monday 10/16/17 at noon. Interested candidates should submit a letter expressing why they are dated legal framework. Geneva from Wednesday to interested in the position of ASLA Staff Attorney as well as what they believe they can contribute to the The top concern, according Friday. future of the program and its client community. The letter should be accompanied by a current resume to the assessement, is consumer The group of experts offers with the names and contact information of three references. Application letter and resume should be protection online, particularly a valuable platform to ensure submitted electronically via email in Microsoft Word format to ASLA Executive Director Fainu’ulelei data protection and privacy, for effective follow-up, which will L.P.F. Ala’ilima-Utu at the following email address:[email protected]. which Samoa has no legislation. require development partners The assessment calls for a that are part of the group to pro- thorough review of Samoa’s vide timely fi nancial and tech- nical assistance to Samoa. ASLA is an equal opportunity employer. legal framework, despite being one of the most advanced in the (Continued on page 10) samoa news, Tuesday, October 10, 2017 Page 9 At least 10 dead as fires rage in California wine country Ph. 252-2964 SANTA ROSA, Calif. (AP) as San Francisco, about 60 a state of emergency in Napa, — Wildfires whipped by pow- miles (96 kilometers) away. Sonoma, Butte, Lake, Men- Location:Room 209, Tedi of Samoa - Fagatogo erful winds swept through Cali- The causes of the fires were docino, Nevada and Yuba fornia wine country Monday, unknown. counties. Authorities imposed Office Hrs. 9am to 2pm killing at least 10 people, The fires throughout the a sunset-to-sunrise curfew in destroying 1,500 homes and region were among the deadliest Santa Rosa, saying they were (684) 633-0179 businesses and sending thou- in California history, and fire on the lookout for looters. sands fleeing as flames raged officials expected the number of The ferocity of the flames Family Owned & Operated since 1998. We are American unchecked through high-end fatalities to increase. forced authorities to focus pri- Samoa’s only full time Pest Control Company. We provide resorts, grocery stores and tree- Winds have posed a chal- marily on getting people out a very affordable and friendly service. lined neighborhoods. lenge to firefighters in the state safely, even if it meant aban- The fires broke out nearly this year despite a relatively wet doning structures to the fire. Do you have ROACH, ANT, FLEAS, TICKS, TERMITE, simultaneously and then winter that followed years of Elsewhere in the state, a fire RATS, AND OTHER PEST PROBLEMS? exploded overnight, sending drought. The fires that broke out churning through canyons in residents fleeing as embers Sunday burned “at explosive hilly neighborhoods of Orange • Call for a FREE PEST EVALUATION OR NO rained down and flames raged rates” because of 50 mph winds, County burned at least half a around them. Two hospitals said Ken Pimlott, director of the dozen homes and forced resi- OBLIGATION INSPECTION in Santa Rosa, the largest city California Department of For- dents of about 1,000 homes to in the region with 175,000 estry and Fire Protection. evacuate. Brown also declared • We do GROUND TERMITE TREATMENT & people, were forced to evacuate October has generally been a state of emergency for Orange CONSTRUCTION PRE_TREATMENTS patients.Later in the day, fires the most destructive time of County. from ruptured gas lines dotted year for California wildfires. The inferno in Northern Cal- • We provide services for Houses, Boats, Cars, the smoky landscapes of black- What was unusual Sunday, ifornia blackened miles along Offices, Warehouses, Storage, Restaurants, Furniture ened Santa Rosa hillsides. Fire however, was to have so many Highway 12, one of the main pieces, stores and cafeteria and health clinics. trucks raced by smoldering fires take off at the same time. gateways into wine country. roadside landscaping in search Gov. Jerry Brown declared of higher priorities. The flames were fickle in some corners of the city. One hillside home remained unscathed while a dozen sur- rounding it were destroyed. DEVELOPMENT BANK OF AMERICAN SAMOA One of the homes that was P.O. BOX 9, Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 reduced to ash had a Mercedes Benz in the garage. Two cars Office: (684) 633-4031 Fax: (684) 633-1163. parked across the street were Website: www.dbas.as untouched. The flames were unforgiving throughout the city, torching block after block with little to salvage.Hundreds of homes in the Fountain Grove area were REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) leveled by flames so hot they melted the glass off of cars and turned aluminum wheels RFP: Financial and Single Audit Services for 2017-2019 into liquid. One neighborhood Approved to issuance by: Ruth Matagi-Fa’atili; DBAS President of older homes was scorched, Date of issuance: August 16, 2017 leaving only brick chimneys and downed power lines. Date & Time Due: October 30, 2017 Residents who gathered at No later than 2:00 pm local time emergency shelters and grocery stores said they were shocked DBAS requests proposals for financial audits and the related single audits for a period of three years, beginning with the by the speed and ferocity of the audit of fiscal year 2017 through fiscal year 2019. Fiscal and calendar years are coincident at DBAS. flames. They recalled all the DOCUMENT possessions they had left behind and were lost. Requests for proposal packet outlining requirements will be available for pick up at DBAS on Friday August 18, 2017 or “All that good stuff, I’m emailing [email protected] for information regarding the RFP. It can also be accessed through the DBAS website: www. never going to see it again,” dbas.as (click public notice) said Jeff Okrepkie, who fled The Request for Proposals (RFP) describes the specifications for the services to be provided in sufficient details to permit his neighborhood in Santa Rosa knowing it was probably the competition and allow the interested party to properly respond to the RFP. last time he would see his home This RFP is issued under Title 28, Chapter 1, of the American Samoa Code Annotated. of the past five years standing. DBAS invites the submission of proposals to include pricing and other details as indicated in the specifications. His worst fears were con- firmed Monday, when a friend Attachments will be provided as an aid in presenting a comprehensive proposal consistent with the requirements of DBAS. sent him a photo of what was DBAS will select a contractor who best meets the needs of DBAS. The factors for selection will include, but not be limited left: a smoldering heap of burnt to the following: understanding of the requirements of the financial and single auditors; verifiable ability to perform well; metal and debris. good reputation; flexibility, including ability to respond quickly to needs of a small client in a remote location and throughout In the rush to leave, Okrepkie the year; and reasonability of costs. and his wife were able to gather important documents, photos The proposals will be reviewed by a committee consisting of representatives from DBAS management and board. The and mementos, like letters from committee may request interviews with potential contractors after reviewing the proposals before the final selection is his wife’s late father. Still, made. Okrepkie was tortured by the Submission: Proposals must be received by DBAS no later than 2:00pm local time on October 30, 2017. They may be things he left behind, including mailed or hand delivered in a sealed envelope to: a framed photo of his grandfa- ther that his grandmother had Development Bank of American Samoa carried with her for a decade PO BOX 9 after he died. Attention: Charmaine Faleaana Some of the largest of the Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 14 blazes burning over a 200- mile region were in Napa and They may also be emailed to [email protected], as an attachment in Word Format with a confirming email required to Sonoma counties, home to confirm receipt; or faxed to DBAS at (684) 633-1163 with a confirming fax to confirm receipt. The original is to follow by dozens of wineries that attract airmail first class. tourists from around the world. They sent smoke as far south Page 10 samoa news, Tuesday, October 10, 2017 years maximum to print new the A.T.M. (automated teller Royal Australia Mint but the In The High Court ➧ money. “And while the deci- machine).” “The A.T.M. won’t paper money comes from of American Samoa Pacifi c… sion to change the currency is at accept the new currency because Delarue in U.K. Many Pacifi c Continued from page 8 TRIAL DIVISION the Cabinet’s discretion, I will of some confi guration and so islands Fiji, Tonga, and Sol- explain the process for public what happens is the banks have omon islands all print their PR NO. 10-017 The previous e-Trade Readi- ness Assessments were for knowledge,” she said. had to replace all their A.T.Ms money from Delarue,” she said. In the Matter of the Estate of Bhutan and Cambodia. Next “We order our currency from and that is costly to the com- She said the current currency up are the Solomon Islands and a company called DelaRue, a mercial banks.” “We consult was launched back in 2007 and TULIPA LAI Vanuatu.(Source: MPMC) banknote manufacturer.” with the commercial banks on this money will be circulating Decedent NOT VIABLE, GOVERNOR “It’s a global company the size of the currency that is for about 10 years. DISMISSES CURRENCY located in the United Kingdom acceptable to the A.T.M’s,” she “And until we have issues in BY: MASE AKAPO CALL who fi rst started printing high said. She said different countries terms of security where a secu- Petitioner Changing the effi gy or fi gure security notes in the 1800’s.” had difference currencies in rity feature is compromised on head on the Samoan currency is “They sell high-security terms of sizes. “These are some the note then we will have to not fi nancially feasible. paper and their deliverance of of the steps we have to take to change our currency.” NOTICE So said the Governor of high security and integrity to the assure that when the currency “We try to use the notes we Central Bank, Maiava Ata- Cash Supply Chain is notable.” arrives there are no problems.” currently have for a lengthy PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that MASE AKAPO lina Ainuu-Enari, in response Maiava then explained the “Makes it diffi cult that time due to the high cost, for us has filed a Petition for appointment as admin- to questions from the Sunday process. “I must say that it is a Delarue is located on the other as a small nation,” she said. istrator of the Estate of TULIPA LAI (deceased) Samoan. The Governor was meticulous process.” side of the world and we are “There were really no asked for a comment following “It takes up between three here in the Pacifi c.” changes of notes at the time A hearing on the Petition will be held on No- calls from members of the and four years before we can “We go through the designs when the Late Malietoa Tanu- vember 1, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. before the Trial public who wonder when the actually print new currency. and the correspondence goes mafi li II, because his tenure was Central Bank would consider ‘That is how lengthy it takes and back and forth on the changes for life and so that is why his Division of the High Court of American Samoa a new currency with the new this is because of the security and most especially the security photo was on the notes and the at the Courthouse in Fagatogo, American Sa- Head of State, His Highness measures placed on the note.’” measures.” “Once the design coin,” she said. moa. All heirs of TULIPA LAI and interested Tuimaleali’ifano Vaaletoa Sua- “It’s not something we do and everything else is ok, then In conclusion, the Governor parties may appear before the court on said lauvi II, on it. overnight,” Maiava said. it goes onto the plate.” pointed out the main recom- “So it starts from the date to respond to this Notice. Prime Minister Tuilaepa ‘This is the tricky part, once mendation from Delarue was go Sa’ilele Malielegaoi referred designing, and by law we have it’s on the plate it cannot be “fauna and fl ora”. questions to the Governor of the to do consultation with the changed, that is why the process “They have suggested for us Central Bank. uses of the currency which is is very lengthy and again metic- to consider putting our national Dated: September 22, 2017 During an interview with the our people.” “We also have to ulous.” According to the Gov- fl ower or national bird to repre- CLERK OF COURTS Sunday Samoan, the Governor consult with the banks because ernor, even ordering the coin is sent Samoa, and so there won’t there were times that our cur- another process. be many changes, because Published: 10/03, 10/11, 10/17/17 said the process takes about four rency was unable to use in “Our coin is minted from changes come at a cost,” said the Governor. (Source: Samoa Observer) IMMIGRATION CHIEF DENIES CLAIM The Head of Samoa Immi- gration, Agafi li Shem Leo, has rejected claims that his Offi ce had been notifi ed about the alleged sale of Samoan pass- ports online earlier this year. The Chief Executive Offi cer of the Ministry of Prime Min- ister and Cabinet in response to questions from the Sunday Samoan rubbished claims his offi ce was informed as early as May.“These allegations were not reported to me as Head of the Ministry back in May,” he told the Sunday Samoan in an email.“It only came to my attention when my Press and Communications Division for- warded an email inquiring about this matter when I was on duty travel on September 22nd 2017. “Swift action was immedi- ately taken against these allega- tions upon my return to Samoa on the 25th September in accor- dance with the law. This had led to the investigation that is cur- rently on going.” But a reliable source said the Immigration offi ce might have been alerted to the situation at the beginning of 2017. The source said the infor- mation, however, was relayed senior Immigration offi cials until the matter was queried by the Samoa Observer. “The complaint came to the offi ce in May, 2017 yet the offi - cials were only informed when Samoa Observer sent over an email containing copies of the passport that was (allegedly) sold online,” the source said. “Up until now, I don’t know why this was not reported in the fi rst place and yet this is a serious issue.”Last week, Attorney General, Lemalu Herman Retzlaff, issued a ‘pro- hibition order’ against two sus- pects in connection with the alleged sale of Samoan pass- (Continued on page 11) samoa news, Tuesday, October 10, 2017 Page 11 ➧ Pacifi c… Continued from page 10 ports online. FRENCH POLYNESIA The order against Immigra- NUCLEAR COMPO tion employee, David Nomereta FIGHT TO GO TO HUMAN Uaine and a member of the RIGHTS COURT public, Fitu Goshe, prohibits $90 French Polynesia’s social $80 2016 Toyota Corolla them from leaving the country welfare agency is set to go to Daily Rate 2013 Hyundai Sonata Daily Rate Automatic (Red Car) Automatic (White Car) while the investigation is in the European Court of Human progress. A copy of the ‘pro- Rights over payments for hibition order’ obtained by the victims of France’s nuclear Samoa Observer was issued weapons tests.It followed a on Tuesday and signed by the French court ruling which Attorney General. upheld a French government The order was addressed to decision not to compensate the *NEW* $90 the Chief Executive Offi cer of agency in Tahiti after it paid $120 Daily 2015 Kia Sedona Daily Rate 2010 Toyota Tundra Automatic (White Truck) the Ministry of the Prime Min- for the care of a victim.The Automatic ister and Cabinet and Samoa court rejected the compensation Contact Information: Jiin Jang Immigration, Agafi li Shem Leo. claim by stating that the French O&O INC. CAR RENTAL (258-4563) or Tafa Leaupepe The alleged sale of pass- state was not liable because PO Box 3897, Pago Pago, AS 96799 Office: 699-4484 • Fax: 699-2307 ports was put to the attention of there was no proof that the state Located in Nu’uuli (O&O Inc. Wholesale) Email: [email protected] the Immigration Offi ce by the was directly responsible for Samoa Observer, which led to the damage.The expert advice the government launching their to the court had earlier pointed investigation into the allega- out that the French compensa- American Samoa Government tions that someone is “selling tion commission attributed pay- Samoan passports” online. ments to victims out of national OFFICE OF PROCUREMENT This was confi rmed in a solidarity and not because the press statement issued by the state recognised any liability. Press Secretary. It argued that as a service “As required under the Pass- provider the Tahitian agency port Act and the Public Service could only get compensated INVITATION FOR BIDS Act, the Immigration division of if it could prove the state’s the Ministry of the Prime Min- responsibility. IFB-006-2018 ister and Cabinet has begun an Radio1 in Tahiti said after investigation in to allegations of the rejection the social welfare Issuance Date: October 10, 2017 Closing Date: October 24, 2017 a potential breach of the Pass- agency’s board has now decided No later than 2:00p.m (local time) port Act,” the statement reads. to lodge the case with the Euro- “This is in relation to reports pean Court of Human Rights. 1. INVITATION received by the Ministry last In July, the French govern- Sealed bids are invited from qualified firms to provide “Food, Beverages and Supplies for week that passports have been ment announced all rejected the American Samoa Department of Education (AS-DOE) - School Lunch Program”. illegally procured.” compensation claims would “The Ministry takes any be reconsidered including one 2. RECEIPT & OPENING OF BIDS allegation seriously and wishes lodged by the agency for money to assure the public that secu- it had disbursed to a victim. Sealed bids will be received by the Chief Procurement Officer, American Samoa Government, rity of our passports remains In a reaction to the court Tafuna, American Samoa 96799, until 2:00 p.m. (local time), October 24, 2017 at which time intact. Relevant action in accor- ruling, the National Front and place the sealed bids will be publicly opened and read. dance with the law will be taken accused the France’s ruling En upon completion of the inves- Marche party of hiding behind 3. MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE MEETING tigation.” “The Immigration legal quibbles. A MANDATORY Pre-Bid Meeting for all contractors will be held on October 17, 2017 at 10:00 Offi ce will continue to monitor, In reply, En Marche accused review and improve processes the National Front of missing a.m. at the Office of Procurement - Conference Room. Bids will not be accepted from bidders to ensure the safety and security the chance to be quiet, saying who are not present at the pre-bid meeting. of Samoa.” The statement did it was a constitutional question not say how long the investiga- about the separation of power 4. CONTRACT DOCUMENTS tion will take and what exactly between the executive and the Electronic copies of contract documents, including Plans and Scope of Work can be examined they are after. (Source: Samoa judiciary.(Source: RNZ) Observer) or obtained from the Office of Procurement during regular business hours free of charge. 5. The American Samoa Government reserves the right not to accept the lowest or any bid. 6. The American Samoa Government reserves the right to waive any informality in bidding as FAIRNESS may be in the best interest of the American Samoa Government. We make an issue of it every day. If you want to comment about our fairness, call Samoa News at 633-5599
DR. ORETA MAPU CRICHTON Equal Opportunity Employer / Affirmative Action Chief Procurement Officer
SOUTHBOUND SOUTHBOUND ARRIVAL ARRIVAL
VESSEL VOY SEA L/BEACH OAK PPT NUKUALOFA APIA PAGO VESSEL VOY PPT N/ALOFA APIA PAGO New Guinea Chief 489 TBA SAILED SAILED 10/10 --- 10/15 10/15 New Guinea Chief 489 10/10 --- 10/15 10/15 Cap Taputapu 034 TBA 10/13 10/15 10/26 --- 10/31 10/31 Cap Taputapu 034 10/26 --- 10/31 10/31 New Guinea Chief 490 TBA 10/29 10/31 11/11 --- 11/16 11/16 New Guinea Chief 490 11/11 --- 11/16 11/16 Cap Taputapu 035 TBA 11/14 11/16 11/27 --- 12/02 12/02 Cap Taputapu 035 11/27 --- 12/02 12/02 New Guinea Chief 491 TBA 11/30 12/02 12/13 --- 12/18 12/18 New Guinea Chief 491 12/13 --- 12/18 12/18
Note: All Schedule dates are estimated 333 Market Street Satellite Building For Local Enquiries, Contact Suite 325 SAMOA PACIFIC SHIPPING, INC. 333 Bush Street Suite# 2580 P.O. Box 1417, Pago Pago, AS 96799 San Francisco. CA 94104 Telephone: (684) 633-4665 • Fax (684) 633-4667 “Our Service Sells Itself” 249 East Ocean Blvd Suite 200 Long Beach, CA 90802 Tel (562) 590-9021 Direct Independent Service Between North America, South Pacific Islands, Hawaii and New Zealand Fax (562) 436-0404 Page 12 samoa news, Tuesday, October 10, 2017
6pc Nuggets McChicken Small Shake Small Fries/Drink McChicken Wrap
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McChicken Wrap & Quarter Med Fries & Two Small Shake & Med Drink Pounder Burger Med Drink Cheeseburgers Apple Pie
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